WELCOME TO THE TECHNOLOGY ISSUE
Compiled here are practical tips from a few of the articles that appear in this issue of Optometric Management.
CONSIDER WHETHER A NEW PURCHASE FITS THE PRACTICE BRAND
When deciding whether to purchase new equipment, Dr. Aaron Lech says one of the first steps is to consider whether the investment fits the practice’s brand. For instance, he writes, if a practice is well-known for allowing patients to consume their health care data and information on a mobile device, they will want to make sure any new investment can provide similar connectivity.
“Consider These Criteria for Purchasing New Technology"
USE PICTURES FOR PATIENT EDUCATION
“Pictures can be incredibly helpful when educating a patient on their condition,” writes Dr. Tim Earley. Using pictures, such as those from widefield fundus cameras, almost always makes patients more invested in their health than they would be if the optometrist just described their condition in words.
“Retina Technology to Upgrade Patient and Practice Health"
DECREASE CORTISOL TO REDUCE WORK STRESS
The key to overcoming burnout is managing work stress, writes Dr. Danielle Richardson. One method to achieve this is to decrease cortisol levels, such as by eating foods high in vitamin B (such as eggs and organic animal protein) and Omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon and tuna).
“Beat Burnout"
AIM FOR LOW-TO-MODERATE EDGE LIFT FOR AN ASPHERIC RGP
When fitting patients for aspheric rigid gas permeable lenses, Dr. Susan Resnick recommends ODs “should aim for an alignment fit that has a low-to-moderate edge lift. I find that aspheric multifocal contact lenses can successfully correct up to 3.00 D of corneal astigmatism.”
“Use RGPs on Astigmatic Presbyopes"
PRIORITIZE OPEN COMMUNICATION AFTER STAFF LEAVE
In Optometric Management’s new “Staffing” column, Dr. Patricia Fulmer shares that open communication is the best way to handle employee questions after a staff member leaves. At her practice, she would hold weekly meetings “and allowed the staff to express any concerns, questions, or frustrations” while the practice began the process of hiring a replacement.
“Balance the Workload After an Employee Leaves"
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